Walla Walla, Washington – A 32-year-old woman was rescued from a burning vehicle following a crash on Highway 12 on New Year’s Eve, after swift action by off-duty and on-duty law enforcement officers.
According to the Walla Walla Police Department, emergency dispatchers began receiving multiple 911 calls at approximately 7:20 p.m. Dec. 31 reporting a vehicle collision with fire on eastbound Highway 12 near Rees Avenue.
Before emergency crews arrived, off-duty Walla Walla Police Department Detective Daschofsky and Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Daschofsky came upon the scene and immediately began life-saving efforts. Police said the driver was unconscious inside the vehicle, which was actively on fire.
Shortly afterward, Walla Walla Police K9 Officer Eastman and Officer Roberts arrived. Working simultaneously, Officer Eastman removed the unconscious driver from the burning vehicle while Deputy Daschofsky used a fire extinguisher to suppress the flames. Officers Roberts, Detective Daschofsky, and Detective Toon forced entry into the rear of the vehicle to confirm no additional occupants were inside.
The Walla Walla Fire Department arrived soon after, fully extinguished the fire, and initiated advanced medical care. The driver was transported to a hospital for further treatment. Her current condition was not released.
The Washington State Patrol is investigating the cause of the collision.
Police said the incident highlights coordinated, multi-agency response efforts focused on rapid intervention and life safety. Video of the rescue was captured on K9 Officer Eastman’s body-worn camera.
